John Wilkie, a Scottish director of opera and theatre, has worked internationally, with his productions being performed in the UK, Europe, and New Zealand.
His work is informed by a background of training in both music and acting. John is dedicated to crafting focused, authentic storytelling intertwined with musical language, and he seeks to create a nurturing, compassionate rehearsal process that emphasises collaboration and evolution.
Driven by a passion for both cinematic and art history, his opera productions intricately weave the magic of film and visual art into the fabric of live performance. By drawing on the artistry of filmmakers and artists, his endeavour is to create immersive experiences that transform the operatic stage into a vivid tapestry of storytelling, inviting audiences to engage with timeless narratives through a fresh lens.
Selected notable projects include work for various leading opera companies and organisations such as The Royal Opera House, New Zealand Festival Opera, Opera Holland Park, Scottish Opera, Danish National Opera, Opera North, Opéra de Lille, The Mozartists, Opéra National du Rhin, Den Fysnke Opera, Garsington Opera, Waterperry Opera Festival, and Wilson’s Music Hall.
He is the Artistic Principal Stage Director at New Zealand Festival Opera, a stagecraft tutor at The Aotearoa New Zealand Opera Studio, and is a founding member of the acclaimed Opera Bohemia in his homeland of Scotland.